Hive was appointed by a leading client in the life sciences sector to undertake the mechanical, electrical, and public health (MEP) design for three new build laboratory units located in Sawston, Cambridge.

This appointment formed part of a strategic development aimed at expanding state-of-the-art research and development facilities in the region, supporting the UK’s growing demand for innovation in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.

Hive’s scope included the full design and coordination of all MEP services, tailored specifically to the complex requirements of laboratory environments. Key elements of the design included high-efficiency ventilation and extract systems, resilient electrical infrastructure to support specialist scientific equipment, and tailored public health systems, such as laboratory-grade drainage and water services. The MEP strategy also incorporated a strong focus on sustainability and energy performance, ensuring the units would meet current regulatory standards while also aligning with future-proofed design principles.

One of the key challenges on the project was delivering highly flexible systems that could adapt to evolving research needs, all while maintaining tight environmental controls and spatial efficiency. Hive worked closely with the client, architects, and structural engineers throughout the design process to ensure seamless integration of services within the building fabric, helping to avoid costly rework or compromises in performance later in the build.

The outcome was a set of innovative, robust MEP solutions that not only met the technical and operational demands of laboratory use but also contributed to the long-term viability and sustainability of the development. Hive’s involvement has helped lay the foundation for a successful, future-ready scientific workspace in one of the UK’s key research hubs.